South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Reviews
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Rebecca from Rapid City, SD
12/23/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
13 out of 13 people found this review useful. 1 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Anyone who loves math or science (and definitely both!) would find a major they can enjoy here. If you're looking for a school known for excellence that is also small with teachers who give students individual attention and that's inexpensive, look no further.
Tips for prospective students Study up on your math skills. If you're like me and want to study science but aren't great at math the school is great at setting up tutors, plus the math TA's are great (they're usually students majoring in mathematics) but it's still a good idea to brush up on it a little bit. Bring warm clothes!
Bang for the buck My deciding factor was that other universities offering the same major were twice (sometimes three times) as much. The school offers a lot of major-based scholarships but really is not that expensive at all. Given the majors available (engineering and science) student loans would not be very difficult to pay off a year or two after graduation. They have a few job fairs every year with recruiters from companies that are hiring engineers and scientists. Most students have great job offers way before graduation.
Am enjoying being here SDSM&T has several activities going on for students all the time. They send out an e-mail with information on what's going to be happening this week. There's always something whether it's a pumpkin carving contest, dance lessons or a carnival in the quad. Rapid City also has fun things to do like movies, bowling, shopping, lots of fast food (thank goodness), swimming and ice skating as well as skiing and lakes not far out of town
Am learning a lot I have already gained alot of knowledge and it's only the end of the first semester. I'm studying for geology and took earth science in high school so I expected that I would know most of what we learned in physical geology but I really learned a lot more. The teachers are very helpful and get to know you since it's a small school. The laptop program helps because you can find notes and power points for your classes on the system.
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Jeff from Rapid City, SD
10/01/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
9 out of 9 people found this review useful. 2 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Introverted, gaming, science, mathematical, and studious.
Tips for prospective students Be sure to take any and all advance placement tests, even if you don't think you'll do well. Who knows, it may save you a few thousand dollars.
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Joseph from Elkhorn, NE
10/26/2009Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
8 out of 8 people found this review useful. 3 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students The school is designed for leaders, students who participate well in lab environments as well as someone who enjoys the outdoors.
Tips for prospective students Research the core curriculum and be as prepared as possible.
Bang for the buck The school is extremely competitive with the larger universities such as Iowa State University.
Will enjoy being here I love the small school environment plus the one-on-one attention when required.
Will learn a lot A top school in the country for engineering.
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Patrick from Aurora, CO
10/14/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
5 out of 5 people found this review useful. 4 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students that have interest in any of the sciences or any sort of engineering would fit in perfectly here.
Tips for prospective students You should definitely consider if being challenged in your first semester is something you are willing to do. The learning starts right when you walk on campus, so be prepared and have an open mind to opinions of others.
Bang for the buck The credibility of this school is undeniable, with the experienced professors and constant innovation from within. Comparing this to other technology and science schools, the cost of SDSM&T is incredibly lower, giving students the ability to be well prepared for their prospective futures at a low and reasonable cost.
Am enjoying being here The campus is beautiful and is very well maintained. The smaller population size is also a bonus because if you need help, there is almost always someone there to help you, but it is easy to find room to study by yourself or quietly. The other students here are friendly and more than willing to engage in conversation, making the campus life that much more enjoyable.
Am learning a lot The professors are excellent in communicating the lessons and getting every detail that needs to be known. The Tablet PC that comes with tuition increases the potential to learn because of all the programs installed on them and the all-campus wi-fi.
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Paul B. from Spearfish, SD
02/18/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 5 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Were you the kid who yawned in AP Calc, and then aced the test in 20 minutes? Or maybe the guy in the back of the room that the teacher looked to, making sure they were on the right track? Well, School of Mines is where you belong. Instead of being surrounded by those who want to finish and be done, you'll be surrounded by the very best of students from across the country, even the world. The community pushes you to try your hardest, and to attain a level of education unsurpassed anywhere else. The professors expect the very best from you as well. They're always ready to answer or explain anything you should wonder about, whether it's strictly related to the class you're taking with them or not. Should you come to School of Mines, get ready, because you're about to be challenged like you always hoped you would be.
Tips for prospective students If you're looking at the School of Mines, get ready for an interesting experience. It's not like High School anymore, where you can get by pretty easily. It's a challenge fitting those who want to be the best of the best.
Bang for the buck School of Mines has a BIG name for a little price. At under 20 grand a year, School of Mines easily halves the prices of bigger colleges, yet, when you throw a graduate from Mines up against a graduate from the Air Force Academy, your employer has a hard choice ahead of him. Mines has the absolute best name out there for the lowest price possible.
Am enjoying being here The campus is great. Everyone is friendly, and the air is fresh as can be. The professors teach like they are having fun with the classes too, and they're always willing to answer whatever questions you may ask. The King Center is amazing as well. The pool is open to students year round, as is the weight room, and it doesn't take much time to get a room for racquetball or to shoot some hoops in the gym.
Am learning a lot In my first semester, I've learned more than the past four years of High School! And that means a lot! I was one of those kids that glided through High School, bored and did well with very little effort, but it's hard to learn when you can't get interested! In one semester, SDSM&T has turned me from a High School drone into a College student!
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John from Evergreen, CO
07/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 6 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety Safe have not experienced any problems
Greek Life Great for both sororities and fraternities, have joined Delta Sigma Phi myself!
Clubs and Activities Various clubs, sororities and fraternities, sports both at Div 2 level and intramural available, beginning boys D2 soccer team this year, SDSMT is in last year of D2 qualifying.
Great for these types of students Engineering, Computer technical based individuals, interdisciplinary program for the undecided available.
Bang for the buck SDSMT's tution rates are among the lowest in the country. Major employers seek out interns and graduates from this school from all over the world.
What to do for fun Rapid City is a tourist destination, until you have seen Mount Rushmore you haven't seen Mount Rushmore. Lot of year-round activities available, malls/shopping, community and campus activities are available.
Food and Dining The food and dining on campus needs to be improved, but that is in the works.
Dorm Life Interesting and varied experiences, dorms clean and well maintained.
Academic Rigor Expectations and academic rigor are challenging and you are expected to be responsible and engaged.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared for strong academic rigor and expectations. SDSMT does not have the stress level that students in other school of mines programs experience.
In three sentences Smaller school/class size creates a great opportunity to receive personalized education. Excellent high-paying job opportunities while in school and after graduation. Excellent opportunity to meet other high performing individuals and faculty.
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Matthew from Hill City, SD
06/30/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
7 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students with strong math and/or science backgrounds. Those looking at engineering fields (metallurgy, civil, chemical, computer), or computer technologies (computer science).
Tips for prospective students Be prepared for a full work load! This is a school with relatively high standards and in order to be successful, you will have to put forth your best effort. Both math and science are strongly emphasized in any major you choose. Do your research and determine if SDSM&T is the school for you.
Bang for the buck SDSM&T has been rated as one of the nations top one hundred buys. The cost is very reasonable considering the exceptional placement rate for graduates. Many local companies look forward to hiring graduates and other employment opportunities are also available.
Am enjoying being here SDSM&T is a small campus with plenty of potential. It has a respectable community of students and professors. The small number of students means smaller class sizes and more one-on-one time with your professors. The school itself has many activities and groups to participate in, both technical and recreational. Because it is located in Rapid City, South Dakota, it allows for plenty of off campus activities. This includes countless outdoor activities you can experience in the nearby Black Hills.
Am learning a lot There is certainly a great deal to learn in order to obtain one of the many math and science based majors offered by South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. After having completed only two semesters, I believe I have advanced significantly in my field of study. This is a school where you can expect to get the most out of your classes and your studies.
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Shelby from Fort Atkinson, WI
12/29/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
8 of 21
Categories Comments Tips for prospective students Don't be too intimidated by the extremely brilliant ones here, and remember to study up on your math skills!
Bang for the buck I am paying less for out of state tuition at SDSMT as I would for in-state tuition at the UW-Madison!
Am enjoying being here Perfect sized town of a little over 60,000 people. Perfect for those who like the outdoors but also like to enjoy some of the bigger city life
Am learning a lot Coming from a smaller school in a rural environment and graduating in the top 15% of my class I thought that I was pretty smart. Once I came to school here my first semester I realized so much that I didn't know. The people here are undeniably smart and willing to help you learn the material if you let them.
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Kaci from Whitewood, SD
01/03/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
9 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Focused and know what they want. Good work ethic and responsible.
Tips for prospective students Don't skip class or you'll fall behind. They try to weed out students who aren't serious about this school in the first couple years.
Bang for the buck It's irritating to pay so much money for a course and have a foreign teacher you can't understand or someone that is really smart but really doesn't know how to teach. There are a few of those teachers here; so sometimes you end up teaching yourself.
Am enjoying being here The campus is really nice and this is a top school to be at; great placement rate!
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Caitlin from Glendive, MT
02/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
10 of 21
Categories Comments Greek Life greek bidding does not occur until late december, which means that they get to know you before you actually become part of the the group.
Great for these types of students school of mines is great for students that are geeky or socially awkward. it is also good for smarter students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus during homecoming week, everyone hikes to m hill and helps white wash the hill. beanie raids happen throughout the dorms also. the beanie run which signify the frosh changing into freshmen. our school songs states we drink our whiskey clear. we have a large collection of songs.
Bang for the buck when you come here you will find that every penny you spent was worth it. there are lots of things that you can do on campus, and there are lots of resources if you are having trouble in any area.
What to do for fun the rapid city area is great for things that you can do around the community. there is outdoor activities like hiking, and there are also tourist activities otherwise.
Food and Dining the food here is not terrible, but its also not that great. they have quite a large variety of food, but it is the same food every day. if you are a picky eater you will find yourself getting bored with the food.
Dorm Life the dorm rooms are pretty small, but if you get the newer hall they do have sinks within the dorm. it's really easy to make friends so long as you step out of your dorm, and everyone seems to be accepted here.
Academic Rigor this school tries to start you off very quickly, but if you have prepared in high school, you will have no trouble in the first year of study.
Tips for prospective students take all the higher level math and sciences that will help you with you degree. taking calculus in high school is the best thing i can recommend.
In three sentences south dakota school of mines is a great place for students who are considered geeks at their own school, and for those who may not fit in as well. don't come here for sports, come here if you want a great education.
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Justin from Ranchester, WY
04/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
11 of 21
Categories Comments Great for these types of students If you are serious about studying and making something out of yourself, then this is the school you should attend. You won't be disasppointed.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus A certain day in September is for the running of the Freshmen. All Freshmen wear little green beanies and then run to the top of a hill. This is when we all became real 'Freshmen.'
Bang for the buck Coming to SDSMT is an out-of-state choice for me. It was cheaper for me to come here than to attend the university in my home state.
What to do for fun What can I say?! Sports, student government, hiking, camping, fishing, biking, shopping, dancing, concrete canoes, dune buggy building, building remote control airplanes for competition. You won't believe the many opportunities you have here at SDSMT.
Food and Dining We have one major dining hall, one cafe, and a snack shack in a classroom building. They serve just about any kind of food you could want. And that includes DESSERTS.
Dorm Life There are three dorms here and new ones are presently going up right now. Fellow students are friendly and there is always something going on. All of the dorm buildings are great, you will be happy living in anyone of them.
Academic Rigor SDSMT helps with all your scheduling so can get into the classes you want and need. Professors are friendly and love to meet new faces. Classes are small so you get more one on one instruction if you need it. The campus is also small so getting around is not a problem at all.
Tips for prospective students Don't second guess yourselves. If you know what you want to do for your career and SDSMT can offer the courses you need, then by all means, come here. We are not big on partying, just big on studying, having fun, making new life long friends and earning big bucks in the ends.
In three sentences South Dakota School of Mines and Technology was the right choice for me. It is everything I was looking for in a college. I am very happy I came to this college.
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Ruthann from New Underwood, SD
06/15/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
12 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety Always feel safe there.
Greek Life again gotta go to know.
Clubs and Activities Alot of clubs and activities.
Great for these types of students All kinds.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus gotta go to know.
Bang for the buck Price to attend is one of hte bes tin the country fo rthe education you get.
What to do for fun THe Blackhills are full of fun thign sot do.
Food and Dining Food is a little pricey, alot of fast food places nearby.
Dorm Life seems like a blast.
Academic Rigor The school of mine is tough but it will pay off someday. Only the best and brightest get in and have to work hard to stay
Tips for prospective students Set goals and work hard to attain them. The future is yours so work hard to ge there.
In three sentences The school of mines prepares tomorrows leaders for the challenges we will face. The professors are bright and readily available to assist students. The school of mines is the best place to get and education in South Dakota.
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Stephen from McCook, NE
06/23/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
13 of 21
Categories Comments Clubs and Activities SAE Formula, SAE Baja, Concrete Canoe, Aero Team, UAV (Unmanned Areal Vehicle), Chem-E car, Ham Radio Club, Steel Bridge team, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Track, and many more.
Great for these types of students Geeks (that is nothing to be ashamed of), farm kids, car nuts, hard-workers, computer-savvy people, experimenters.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Dublin Dash is a parade and run around downtown Rapid City, open to all students. M-day is the homecoming of SDSM&T, allowing students to become familiar with the school. Students are encouraged to walk from campus to M-hill, and help the seniors paint the M.
Bang for the buck There is a reason that South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has been rated as a best college buy for 12 years.
What to do for fun Get involved with one or two of the design teams, on campus. There are many teams that design and test vehicles from several different classes that are used to compete with other schools. Vehicle teams include unmanned helicopter, RC aeroplane team, SAE Formula race car team, and SAE Baha buggy team. The teams are great for developing a sense of community. Employers like to see the teaming experience on resumes, as the experiences from these teams really do translate into there real world.
Food and Dining In my opinion, the meal plans are a bit pricey. It is required that any student living in the dorms must purchase a meal plan. Many students that live off of campus do not purchase meal plans simply because it is cheaper to cook meals. If purchasing a meal plan, make sure to purchase one that works with class schedule. Purchasing more meals than you can use do to class conflicts is a waste of money.
Dorm Life Dorm life completely depends on the dorm. Connoly and Palmerton dorms have more avid dorm atmospheres, with floor activities. They are great dorms for hanging out, if you have the time. Peterson, because of it's layout, does not have as good of a dorm life. There are no common rooms on the floor, so it is not a good place to meet people. However, it is connected to the main building on campus, so accessibility is nice.
Academic Rigor It is actually quite a joke when athletics is mentioned on campus. The focus on education is primary. It takes a lot of hard work to keep up with classes, but the rewards are worth it. Professors truly expect you to do your part in your coursework. Exams are not easy, and things are not simply handed to you.
Tips for prospective students If possible, take calculus-based physics at another university. Do not plan on being able to party at this school. The kids who come to SDSM&T planning to party many times end up being the drop-outs. If you are focused on engineering and getting a degree, this is the school for you. Still, don't expect it to be easy.
In three sentences A great school for engineering students, with challenging curriculum and a small campus. Many professors have real-world experience, which is a big plus. Overall, worth my money, and a great college buy.
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Shayne from Rapid City, SD
07/25/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
14 of 21
Categories Comments Bang for the buck The South Dakota School of Mines is one of the nations top 100 best college buys with some of the lowest tuition for the education you get also there is almost guaranteed job placement prestigious students.
What to do for fun There are lots of things to do for fun there are rec rooms for students in each hall in the Connolly and Peterson commons there is a flat screen with three computers a pool table and some vending machines for your convenience. the Palmerton commons or game room in the Surbeck center has two ping pong tables and a pool table and also has vending machines. along with that you can hang with your new friends. The school also has a pool, two basketball courts, soccer field, and a new volley ball court. Also there are performers that come to the school and perform which are usually free for all students to attend and there usually held at night after most classes so no one misses out.
Food and Dining The school has three places for eating the miners shack, the hard rock cafe, and the coffee shop. the miners shack is like a mini fast food and sub shop in the school that opens before lunch and is open till usually 10 to 11 pm. the hard rock cafe has three types of buffets that they serve breakfast at 7:00am to 9:00am, lunch at 11:00am to 1:30pm, and dinner 4:30 to 6:30pm. The food at both the hard rock cafe and miner shack are very good with friendly employees and faces. lastly the coffee shop is located in the classroom building and serves some more specialty drinks that the other two eatery's don't.
Dorm Life The dorm life is great with how friendly everyone is. most of the time the different floors have events and special nights, some examples are; movie night, cooking events, gaming events and tournaments. The only thing that is uncomfortable are the rooms because of there small size so i suggest getting to know your room mate and see if you guys can't figure out a way to maximize space, and so you can learn to live well together.
Academic Rigor The Academic Rigor or difficulty can be quiet challenging. Each class starts out easy and progressively get more difficult as the course goes on and some are greatly accelerated. But structured to better your skills and make it so you understand exactly what your talking about, so you have to be very thorough.
Tips for prospective students My tips for the prospective students that go to the school of mines is to not be shy. there are a lot of kids but most of them just want to get to know you to there are times where you can be caught in a friendly conversation and meet someone new. Also there is always something happening around campus. so don't just sit in your room and watch TV, but get out there and see what the school has to offer it might surprise you.
In three sentences The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is an excellent school that strives for excellence. They provide a perfect learning environment with energetic teachers and students there to help anyone eager to learn. Helping it be the very successful university that it is.
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from Rapid City, SD
02/12/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
15 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety Extremely safe campus and surrounding areas.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Freshman wear beanies and don't walk on the grass!
Bang for the buck You can't beat the price of SDSM&T. Out of state tuition, room, board, and expenses is less than $18k/year. Engineering graduate's starting salary averages $62k/year. There's not a better deal out there for engineers.
What to do for fun Outdoors activities
Academic Rigor It's not difficult to get into SDSM&T, but if you're not prepared, you're one of the people that will be weeded out. This school is interested in developing serious engineers.
Tips for prospective students You'll love SDSM&T. The Black Hills are a beautiful location for outdoors enthusiasts but don't forget, you're here to become an engineer. Study, study, study.
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Jessica from Custer, SD
02/21/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
16 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is very good. They patrol often and are always available for any emergency.
Greek Life Greek life is definitely a big part of many people's lives at SDSM&T. For students who do not want to get involved, there are many here that aren't and they never miss it. For students that would life to get involved in Greek life, it is a great opportunity, it looks good on resumes and the connections you make last a lifetime.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs here, it is crazy to keep up with them. There are some volunteer clubs and then there are many engineering clubs. They are all fantastic and the club that would be best for a student just depends on what field of engineering interests them the most.
Great for these types of students SDSM&T is great for hardworking students, students that are good in math and science and anyone that is passionate about any of the engineering fields.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are few unusual traditions that we have. One is running around the track to lose your frosh status, another is beanie raids. Freshman are taken up to Greek Hill and made to sing really funny songs. It is a blast!
Bang for the buck It is worth every penny. I love the campus; it is small enough to walk around in 15 minutes but big enough to give you a little diversity. The people are willing to help you out in any way they can. There is always something going on. For those who are struggling with a class, there is free tutoring for any subject.
What to do for fun The people here at SDSM&T work hard to give students free activities that are also fun. We often have movie nights, free ice skating, dances, weekly yoga and zumba nights, and many other activities.
Food and Dining The food is pretty good. The cafeteria has good hours that accommodate the majority and when the cafeteria isn't open there is always the Miners Shack, which is also pretty good.
Dorm Life The dorms are nice. I have never had a noise complaint, and I have never had to make one either. The rooms are clean and the bathrooms are always kept in good shape too.
Academic Rigor This is not an easy school. You have to work hard to get the good grades but if you are willing to put in the time, it is worth the trouble.
Tips for prospective students Study hard but also have a social life and you will love it here.
In three sentences South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is an amazing school! I am getting a good education for an even better price! The campus, faculty and students are friendly and helpful!
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Alex
03/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
17 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety Rapid City is an extremely safe city and the campus is even more regulated. We are small enough that you literally know just about everyone on campus and strangers stick out.
Greek Life Minimal. As a small campus, focused heavily on academics, social time is minimal.
Clubs and Activities The aforementioned athletic events are great and there are a TON of academic based teams competing in everything from F1 racing to robotics and photography.
Great for these types of students Nerds. No question about it, the average IQ is far above most other campuses. With so many engineering students in a single location, you will often find yourself as NOT the smartest guy in the room.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The giant SMD on the hill in Rapid City are white washed every year as part of M week (ie. homecoming). As a 125 year old college, traditions and history are numerous.
Bang for the buck Do a little research and you will soon realize that our graduates are making more money (and spending less on their education) than any other school out there. Go ahead and Google South Dakota versus Harvard and you will see.
What to do for fun They are in a big push to move to D2 in most sports and athletic events are well attended. Downtown Rapid City is within walking distance and outdoor recreation opportunities (camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, etc.) are abundant within the surrounding Black Hills.
Food and Dining Plenty of it, clean and reasonably priced. No getting around the fact that it's not home cooking but there is enough to chose from to suit just about any taste.
Dorm Life Nice facilities, but like any dorm it has it's share of noise and distractions. There are ample opportunities to live very near campus at a very low cost if desired.
Academic Rigor Top notch, engineering focused curriculum and instructors. On site instruction is supported by lab work and real world experience through academic project teams and co-op and internship programs
Tips for prospective students Visit campus, tour the facilities and meet the staff. Then spend a weekend here. The location is remote at best. If you are looking for a fantastic education, it's great. If you are looking for the full Animal House college experience, you should probably consider somewhere else.
In three sentences One of the top engineering schools in the nation with minimal cost. The return on investment is extraordinary and the instruction is outstanding. If your an engineering focused individual, it is an excellent choice.
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Alexandra from Reno, NV
04/11/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
18 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus itself is very safe with plenty of lighting and safety staff. Rapid city can be a little sketchy at night, but it's really not that bad.
Greek Life If you like greek life, Tech has plenty of it to offer. We have 5 frats and 2 sororities. They are very big recruiters and offer many benefits.
Clubs and Activities There is a club for just about everything you can think of. Tech also offers many volunteer opportunities and undergraduate research positions
Great for these types of students Studious, determines, fin loving, creative, thinkers, inventors
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus M week is always fun. It includes picnics and hiking to M hill, then sliding down the hill as we white wash the M.
Bang for the buck This is one of the cheapest schools you will find. Even the out of state tuition is cheaper than most in state tuition. For this, you get access to millions of dollars worth of equipment and thousands of dollars worth of computer software.
What to do for fun The Black hills is full of hiking and biking trails. Downtown Rapid offers some great shopping and sightseeing. The school is always holing event like video game tournaments and ice cream parties that are fun.
Food and Dining The cafeteria is better than most school cafeterias, but its not like home. They do have a good variety and offer many healthy choices.
Dorm Life The dorms are not too bad. There is a good sense of community and you will meet tons of people.
Academic Rigor The classes are hard, but they are worth the effort because you will learn so much. Tech is a school for the hard workers, not the slackers.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you are prepared for the rigorous course load. Tech has higher standard of learning than most colleges, so the courses will be tough. Make sure you get a good foundation in high school. As always make sure you visit campus and apply early.
In three sentences Tech offer the highest level of academics combined with a small, friendly campus and state of the art laboratories. If you are interested in Engineering or sciences, there is no better school out there for the price. The faculty is knowledgeable and committed to your success in learning.
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Jeremy from Sundance, WY
04/16/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
19 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is pretty safe but the are around Rapid City is a little rough.
Greek Life I am in the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, the largest greek house on campus. There is also Triangle and Theta Tau for fraternities. Soroities include Alpha Delta Pi and Alpha Omega Epsilon.
Clubs and Activities There are plenty of clubs to join that can get you involved with people on campus to make more friends.
Bang for the buck This school is cheaper than most and the salary at the end is way more than most schools for this cost.
What to do for fun There are lots of activities to join in on and plenty of people willing to go have fun with you.
Food and Dining The food is ok, but not the best. The dining hall has a lot of the same food everyday and is not very big. But it is a good consistent meal for all.
Dorm Life Most of the students are really nice and like to have fun. Some just lock themselves in their rooms, but all you have to do is knock and you have a new friend!
Academic Rigor Classes here are tough, but they are definitely worth it.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared for a great place to learn. This school is not for the weak at heart but for the ones who love to learn and get to the top.
In three sentences School of Mines is a top school for engineering. Plus, the average graduating salary is higher than students from Harvard!! Come join one of the leaders in technology in the whole world!
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Jesse James from Phoenix
05/20/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
20 of 21
Categories Comments Campus Safety There is nothing to worry about here.
Greek Life Greek life is pretty popular here. They aren't necessarily attractive like you see in movies. Honestly, our school is not the ordinary college, which makes it even better.
Clubs and Activities We have all kinds of clubs and activities. There are all kinds of clubs split up by major who do projects. For instance, there is the BAHA club and they make racecars and race them in a contest.
Great for these types of students This is the mega nerd school. Great for wannabe engineers who are proud to be nerds. This school is split up into nerds and athletes. We are a D2 program so it attracts a lot of smart athletes as well who aren't necessarily nerds. But I'm sorry, everyone has a little bit of that inner nerd if they go to Mines.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus This school is located in the Black Hills so there are a lot of hills. It makes sense that we have a huge white M on a hill that belongs to us called M Hill (M is for Mines). Every fall we have an M-Day picnic (which is completely free) and you dress up in the most ridiculous clothing possible. You climb M Hill and white wash the M by sliding down it drenched in white paint. It is a blast!
What to do for fun We party a lot. And if you're not into that, there's always some kind of school sponsored event that is fun. We have Humans vs. Zombies which is a blast. You use nerf guns to kill zombies.
Food and Dining It's an all-you-can-eat buffet so if you like to eat it's awesome! The food is pretty repetitive but at least there's a lot of it. They have very good dessert ranging from strawberry shortcake to brownies to cookies.
Dorm Life Dorm life is not exactly awesome. The quads are pretty cool because you get your own bathroom. You don't have to worry about getting some kind of nasty fungus on your feet in a public shower. That's a plus.
Academic Rigor Engineering is difficult to learn. So naturally, this is a difficult school. But it all pays off in the end. Grads make bank!
Tips for prospective students 1. Do not procrastinate. Class loads are heavy since this is an engineering school. Engineering is not easy! 2. Get involved. Making friends is easy when you get out there. 3. Build relationships with your professors. They are very helpful and want you to succeed. 4. Ignore the fake people. There's a lot of 'em, everywhere you go. Find your real friends.
In three sentences A degree from South Dakota School of Mines is top notch. On average, our grads have a higher starting salary than Harvard grads. If you want to make big bucks and are interested in Engineering, math, or science (or all three), this is the place for you.
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Jason from Rapid City, SD
06/03/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
21 of 21
Categories Comments What to do for fun Since the schools back yard is the Black Hills there is an endless amount of activities to do. Hiking, backpacking, skiing/snowboarding, snowmobiling, mountain biking, rock climbing, you get the picture. If you are not the outdoorsy type downtown has been improving it's appeal to the younger people with shopping and dining.
Food and Dining I don't eat at school a lot but when I have it has been good. The all you can eat is nice because they cook it right there in front of you. One can create their own pasta dish, Chinese dish, burgers, pizza,etc.
Dorm Life I live off campus.
Academic Rigor The academic rigor at SDSM&T is tough. One has to put in the work to be successful. One will only get out of it what one puts into it!
Tips for prospective students My tip for prospective students is to get your work done right away! Don't put it off until the last minute and you will find you have more free time or I should say less stressful free time.
In three sentences South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is a demanding but rewarding school. The school makes you earn your degree and learn the material. It is a fun and beautiful place to go to school and live!
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